Peter Navy Tuiasosopo, a veteran actor known for his roles in “Street Fighter” and numerous television series, died Monday morning, February 10, 2025, in Phoenix, Arizona, from heart complications. He was 61.

His son, Manoah Peter Tuiasosopo, announced the death on social media, writing, “My dad lived an amazing life, and in no way does his impact stop here … His strength, love, compassion, and kindness will forever be felt.” 

Born on May 24, 1963, in San Pedro, California, Tuiasosopo was a multi-sport athlete in his youth. He attended Phineas Banning High School in Wilmington, California, where he excelled as both an offensive and defensive lineman in football and competed as a shot putter in track and field. 

His athletic prowess earned him a football scholarship to Utah State University, where he further developed his skills. After college, Tuiasosopo pursued professional football, signing as an undrafted free agent with the St. Louis Cardinals following the 1987 NFL Draft but did not make the team. 

He later joined the Los Angeles Rams during the players’ strike, starting three games at center, though he did not make any official NFL game appearances after the strike ended. This brief stint in professional football would later influence his acting career, particularly in sports-related roles.

In 1991, Tuiasosopo made a career-changing decision to transition into acting. His debut role came in the sports comedy “Necessary Roughness,” where he portrayed Manumana, “the Thin Man,” a character that allowed him to draw from his football background. His breakthrough role arrived in 1994 when he was cast as E. Honda in the film adaptation of “Street Fighter,” a performance that would become one of his most recognizable contributions to cinema.

Throughout his three-decade career, Tuiasosopo built an extensive television portfolio. He appeared in numerous popular series, including recurring roles in “NCIS,” “Ray Donovan,” “black-ish,” and “New Girl.” His most recent television work included a role in the 2021 revival of “Magnum P.I.” His versatility as an actor was evident in his film work, which spanned multiple genres and included roles in major productions such as “The Fast and the Furious,” “Charlie’s Angels,” “The Scorpion King,” “Batman & Robin,” “BASEketball,” and “Austin Powers in Goldmember.” 

His television career showcased his range as a character actor. Beginning with his appearance on “Danger Theatre” in 1993, he went on to make memorable guest appearances on “The Jamie Foxx Show,” “Jenny,” “Silk Stalkings,” and “Hawaii.” In the crime drama series “Mob City,” he demonstrated his ability to handle more serious dramatic roles. 

Tuiasosopo’s legacy extends beyond his TV and movie achievements. He came from a family with deep connections to professional football, with several relatives, including his uncle, cousins, and second cousin, having NFL careers. In Hollywood, he earned recognition as a trailblazer for Polynesian actors, helping to break down barriers and create opportunities for greater representation in the entertainment industry. 

The family is planning a Celebration of Life event, with details to be announced later. They have asked for continued support and prayers during this emotional time.